Schools - from primary schools to universities - are experiencing new challenges in connectivity, from greater reliance on internet-based resources for homework, the need to support remote learning, innovative teaching and research techniques, and an ever-increasing number of connected devices. 

Higher education institutions have traditionally prioritized upgrading or expanding existing campus Wi-Fi networks to supplement fixed Ethernet infrastructure. However, this method falls short of key criteria such as dependability, security, performance, coverage, capacity, and mobility. 

The connectivity needs of a busy, modern campus are complicated. A network can be overburdened by the combination of personal devices, school-issued technology, and collaboration tools. Not to mention the need for campus security systems, like surveillance cameras and smoke detectors, as well as smart lighting and other critical building infrastructure. Education institutions require an evolved communications infrastructure to reap the full benefits of broadband and IoT applications due to the growing density of devices and critical connectivity requirements. The most effective and reliable solution is a private wireless network.

New era in connectivity 

A private wireless network gives you complete control over the creation and management of multi-local networks, with the added benefits of low latency, strong security, and the ability to scale as needed. 

In the United States, the shared CBRS spectrum, which became commercially available through the FCC in early 2020, is an excellent option enabling private LTE networks to supplement the legacy hardwired and Wi-Fi solutions that most institutions already have in place. The government has made CBRS spectrum available to industries including education, providing license to operate a private LTE wireless network. A private LTE network can connect hundreds of devices, machines, sensors, or users with just a single small cell. 

According to a recent Nokia survey of enterprises including education institutions, the majority of respondents say they would seek guidance from a mobile operator as they develop their private network deployment strategy. They believe that a mobile operator will give them access to expertise and experience in the design, construction, and operation of a mobile network, as well as access upcoming technology releases. 

Verizon’s private wireless solution, On Site LTE powered by Nokia’s Digital Automation Cloud, is the Verizon - Nokia collaboration to offer a fully integrated CBRS industrial-grade private wireless solution, supporting the complex nature of a large campus with the added benefits of low latency, strong security, and scalability.

Bridging the digital divide

Verizon’s On Site LTE powered by Nokia’s Digital Automation Cloud can also address the digital learning gap by providing connectivity to areas that lack broadband access. Students and teachers need access to online resources and virtual classrooms. A large-scale private network deployment can serve an entire region, allowing thousands of students to attend school and access online services and resources. 

Take the next step

Nokia and Verizon are constantly working to evaluate, design and deploy private wireless solutions to provide access to all learners and power a new generation of campuses. Watch our joint webinar, “Bridging the Education Digital Divide with Private Cellular Networks” to learn how Nokia and Verizon can connect students. 

Download eBook “Beyond Wi-Fi: Creating smart education campuses with pervasive broadband – Private wireless networking for higher education” for more information about Nokia’s offerings and the benefits of CBRS spectrum.